Japanese calligraphy is not just writing, but a focused movement, rhythm, and expression. In this workshop, you will be introduced to the traditional way of writing in Japan and try working with brush and ink, a technique that differs greatly from drawing or painting as we know it in Europe.
Together, you will discover how lines, strokes, and the character of each sign are created, and experience a technique that connects craftsmanship, aesthetics, and calm concentration. This workshop is an opportunity to slow down, immerse yourself in the creative process, and experience the beauty of Japanese calligraphy through your own hand and personal expression.
Basic information:
- Capacity: 6 people / workshop
- Duration: 120 minutes
- Location: kaš-mi-daš, Janovského 33, Prague 7 (map)
- Experience: suitable for complete beginners
- Workshop language: Czech
Upcoming dates and registration
You can reserve your place in the workshop by purchasing a workshop ticket, where you can choose your preferred date.
Upcoming dates:
- Thursday, May 28, 2026 from 18:00
The workshop price includes
- a 120-minute workshop with expert guidance
- full use of all Japanese calligraphy materials and tools
- materials for practice as well as your final calligraphy artwork
- individual guidance in a small group
- unlimited non-alcoholic drinks from our café
You can purchase your workshop ticket here:
What the workshop can bring you
- an introduction to the traditional way of writing in Japan
- the experience of working with brush and ink in a way that differs from European drawing and painting
- a new creative experience connected with concentration, calmness, and rhythm
- an understanding of the basic principles of Japanese calligraphy
- your own calligraphy artwork created on authentic calligraphy paper
The workshop is suitable for anyone who would like to explore the aesthetics of Japanese script and try a form of creation in which every brushstroke matters. No previous experience is needed — just a desire to discover and create.
How the workshop works
The workshop takes place in a calm and focused atmosphere and includes the following approximate phases:
Introduction to Japanese calligraphy
- a short introduction to Japanese calligraphy
- explanation of the rules of holding the brush
- correct posture while writing
Practice of basic strokes
- getting familiar with brush and ink in practice
- practising basic lines and strokes
- learning to feel rhythm, pressure, and direction of the stroke
Practice of the simplest character
- step-by-step demonstration
- independent practice with the lecturer’s guidance
Choosing characters and preparing your own artwork
- selection of characters from prepared templates
- demonstration of how to write the chosen characters
- independent practice
- if participants have a specific wish for what they would like to write, the lecturer will prepare a template on the spot
Final calligraphy on authentic calligraphy paper
- transferring the practised characters into their final form
- creating your own calligraphy artwork
Who will guide you through the workshop
Kaoru Ishida
My name is Kaoru Ishida, I am an artist from Japan, and I have been living in Prague since 2002. I have loved painting and drawing since childhood, and in Prague I completed my master’s degree in animation at the Film and TV School of the Academy of Performing Arts (FAMU).
In Japan, I attended Japanese calligraphy classes from the age of six, and thanks to this background I have been teaching Japanese calligraphy in the Czech Republic since 2005. In the workshop, I will be happy to share my experience and my joy in this traditional discipline, which combines technique, concentration, and personal expression.
Where the workshop takes place
All workshops take place in the lower deck of our kaš-mi-daš paper universe. Beneath our stationery shop with café, we have a space where workshops and courses take place in peace and quiet, even during opening hours. During the workshop, you can enjoy a non-alcoholic drink from our café, which is included in the price.
How to get here
Janovského 33, Prague 7, 170 00 (a street parallel to Dukelských hrdinů)
- Trams 6 and 17, Veletržní palác stop (approx. 1 minute on foot)
- Metro Vltavská (approx. 7 minutes on foot)
- Parking at OC Stromovka (approx. 4 minutes on foot)